Cameroon’s customs reform on phone imports: public uproar over rising costs and state revenue surge

In Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, the bustling Kennedy Avenue market has become the epicenter of a heated debate following the implementation of a new customs mechanism targeting imported phones. Between April and early September 2026, Cameroon’s customs authorities collected 1.8 billion FCFA—approximately 2.7 million euros—in duties and taxes on imported phones, tablets, and digital devices. This represents a dramatic increase from the previous monthly collections of just 100 million FCFA. However, the reform has sparked significant controversy, with import traders and consumers voicing concerns over rising costs and operational challenges, even as the government celebrates a boost in state revenue.

The new customs system, which took effect on April 1, 2026, leverages digitalization to streamline the declaration and clearance of imported phones. Before its introduction, many import traders underreported the value of phones, leading to irregular payments and significant revenue losses for the state. Proponents of the reform argue that it has not only increased state coffers but also enhanced market transparency. However, critics, including local traders like Seydou, an importer of used phones, highlight serious operational flaws. Seydou explains that while customs officials collect duties at the airport, they often fail to record phone serial numbers, leading to mass blocking of devices and distress among consumers.

Rising Costs Spark Backlash Among Traders and Consumers

Prior to the reform, traders like Gérard Fontem purchased used phones for between 20,000 and 25,000 FCFA. After customs clearance, these phones were sold for around 45,000 to 85,000 FCFA—prices that nearly doubled following the reform. Fontem complains that clients are now reluctant to buy both undocumented and documented phones due to high costs and the risk of device blocking. “The new system has caused us significant losses,” says Fontem. “Customers are avoiding phones entirely because they cannot afford the documented prices, and undocumented phones are no longer trusted.”

Paul Olivier Libii, Principal Customs Inspector and focal point for the reform at the Directorate General of Customs in Yaoundé, dismisses these concerns. Libii claims that many import traders previously evaded taxes by underreporting phone values. “Those complaining about higher prices are likely among the traders who previously avoided taxation,” Libii argues. “For those who complied with the old system, prices have actually decreased. The new mechanism ensures fairness by standardizing tax collection.”

According to Libii, the reform digitalized the valuation process, dividing the transactional value of phones by up to seven times and reducing the overall tax rate from 67% to 33.33%. The system now categorizes phones into eight groups, with duty fees ranging from 5,000 to 400,000 FCFA. However, the reform has not been without its critics. Traders voice frustrations over inconsistent enforcement and the abrupt blocking of devices without prior notice to consumers. Libii assures that customs authorities are committed to addressing these issues and bringing previously undocumented phones into compliance.

What’s Next for Cameroon’s Phone Import Market?

The introduction of the new customs mechanism has undeniably reshaped the landscape of Cameroon’s phone import market. While the government celebrates a surge in revenue and improved compliance, traders and consumers grapple with rising costs and operational hurdles. The reform’s long-term success hinges on its ability to strike a balance between revenue generation and market stability. As the debate continues, all eyes are on Cameroon’s customs authorities to implement further adjustments that address trader concerns while maintaining the integrity of the new system.

Key Takeaways

• The new customs mechanism has generated 1.8 billion FCFA in revenue between April and September 2026, a dramatic increase from previous monthly collections of 100 million FCFA.
• Traders report significant financial losses due to rising costs and operational challenges, including inconsistent device blocking and serial number recording.
• Customs officials defend the reform as a tool for fairness and transparency, arguing that it standardizes tax collection and reduces underreporting.
• The system now categorizes imported phones into eight duty groups and has reduced the overall tax rate from 67% to 33.33%.
• The long-term impact of the reform on Cameroon’s phone import market remains uncertain, as stakeholders await further adjustments from customs authorities.

The debate over Cameroon’s customs reform on phone imports is far from settled. As the government seeks to strengthen state revenue through digitalization and stricter compliance, traders and consumers alike are left navigating a market transformed overnight. The coming months will reveal whether this reform ultimately benefits Cameroon’s economy or places undue strain on its thriving phone market.

By Abdoulaye Mounkaila — Reporter